System and method of sharing images

ABSTRACT

A system and method for facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital data between at least two parties over a communication network. The system comprises a digital data facilitator having a digital storage device for storing digital data transmitted over the communication network from a first party, the digital data facilitator having the ability to review a request transmitted from a second party, the digital data having an associated first and second identifier, the second identifier being associated with the second party, the second identifier being associated with a telephone number, the first identifier being associated with an electronic identifier of the first party.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.11/934,809, filed Nov. 5, 2007, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety, which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.10/325,350, filed Dec. 19, 2002, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

FIELD

The disclosure relates generally to the field of digital imaging, and inparticular to the transmission of digital images. More specifically, thedisclosure relates to a system and method of sharing images between twoparties.

BACKGROUND

Various methods are available to share digital images between twoparties. One known method is to attach a digital file comprising adigital image as part of an electronic message, for example, e-mail.When the recipient receives the electronic message, the digital file canbe detached and the image viewed. Another known method employs on-lineservice providers, for example Ofoto, Inc., a subsidiary of EastmanKodak Company. On-line service providers support websites/databases,which permit a user to store/access/share digital images between two ormore parties. For example, using a website, a user can arrange acollection of images which can be viewed by individuals authorized bythe user. These authorized individuals can view the collection of imagesand can order prints of the images.

While such systems may have achieved certain degrees of success in theirparticular applications, some systems have disadvantages. Some systemsrequire the use of a computer, and therefore, the user needs to becomputer literate to send/receive an image. Further, some websites wherethe images reside are of questionable security. In addition, somewebsites require that a user “register” in order to obtain a password toallow sharing and prevent unwanted viewing of personal images. Stillother systems are fee-based. For example, some systems charge a monthlyservice fee to the user to store and/or share their images regardless ofthe usage of the system. Yet other systems charge a service fee to arecipient of the images to receive images sent by a sender. Still othersystems allow the practice of “spamming” of unwanted/unsolicited imagesto recipients.

Accordingly, a need exists for a system and method of sharing imagesbetween at least two parties, which can, but does not require, the useof a computer to send/receive images. Still further, such a system andmethod should not allow for receipt of unwanted or unsolicited images.Yet further, if such a system and method includes a fee, such a feeshould be based on usage.

The system and method of the present disclosure provides for the sharingof images between at least two parties. The system and method can, butdoes not require, the use of a computer to send/receive images. Thesystem and method provides for the receipt of wanted and solicitedimages. A fee can be employed, wherein the fee is based on usage.

SUMMARY

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system and methodfor sharing images between at least two parties.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide such a system andmethod which can, but does not require, the use of a computer.

A further object of the present disclosure is to provide such a systemand method, which provides for the receipt of wanted and solicitedimages.

A still further object of the present disclosure is to provide such asystem and method which, if a fee is employed, employs a fee which isbased on usage.

These objects are given only by way of illustrative example, and suchobjects may be exemplary of one or more embodiments of the disclosure.Other desirable objectives and advantages inherently achieved by thedisclosed disclosure may occur or become apparent to those skilled inthe art. The disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

According to one aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a systemfor facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital data between atleast two parties over a communication network. The system comprises adigital data facilitator having a digital storage device for storingdigital data transmitted over the communication network from a firstparty, the digital data facilitator having the ability to review arequest transmitted from a second party, the digital data having anassociated first and second identifier, the second identifier beingassociated with the second party, the second identifier being associatedwith a telephone number, the first identifier being associated with anelectronic identifier of the first party.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided amethod for facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital databetween a first and second party over a communication network. Themethod comprises the steps of: transmitting the digital data over thecommunication network from the first party to a digital data facilitatorhaving a digital storage device, the digital data having an associatedfirst and second identifier, the first identifier being associated withan electronic identifier of the first party, the second identifier beingassociated with a telephone number of the second party; storing thedigital data on the digital storage device; reviewing a requesttransmitted from the second party to the digital data facilitator;employing the digital data facilitator to identify the first party andthe second party; determining the absence or presence of the digitaldata stored on the digital storage device having the associated firstand second identifier associated with the first and second party,respectively; and fulfilling the request if the digital data is present.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided amethod for facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital databetween a first and second party over a communication network. Themethod comprises the steps of: transmitting the digital data over thecommunication network from the first party to a digital data facilitatorhaving a digital storage device, the digital data having an associatedfirst and second identifier, the first identifier being associated withan electronic identifier of the first party, the second identifier beingassociated with a telephone number of the second party; storing thedigital data on the digital storage device; reviewing a requesttransmitted from the second party to the digital data facilitator, therequest comprising the first identifier; accessing the first identifierfrom the request; accessing the second identifier of the second partytransmitting the request; accessing the digital data stored on thedigital storage device having the associated first and secondidentifier; and fulfilling the request.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided asystem for facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital databetween a first and second party over a communication network. Thesystem comprises a digital data facilitator having a digital storagedevice for storing the digital data transmitted over the communicationnetwork from the first party, the digital data facilitator having theability to transmit the digital data to the second party in response toa request transmitted to the digital data facilitator from the secondparty subsequent to a communication sent to the second party from thedigital data facilitator, a first identifier and a second identifierbeing associated with the digital data, the first identifier beingassociated with the first party, the second identifier being associatedwith a telephone number of the second party; a communication device forsending the communication to the second party over the communicationnetwork; and a transaction facilitator adapted to monitor the digitaldata being transmitted over the communication network.

According to a still further aspect of the disclosure, there is provideda method for facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital databetween a first and second party over a communication network. Themethod comprises the steps of: transmitting the digital data over thecommunication network from the first party to a digital data facilitatorhaving a digital storage device, the digital data having an associatedfirst and second identifier, the first identifier being associated withan electronic identifier of the first party, the second identifier beingassociated with a telephone number of the second party; storing thedigital data on the digital storage device; employing the digital datafacilitator to identify the first party and the second party; sending acommunication to the second party over the communication network;reviewing a request transmitted from the second party to the digitaldata facilitator in response to the communication sent to the secondparty; and transmitting the digital data to the second party in responseto receiving the request from the second party.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided asystem for facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital databetween at least two parties over a communication network, comprising: adigital data facilitator having a digital storage device for storing thedigital data transmitted over the communication network from a sender, arecipient identifier and a sender identifier being associated with thedigital data, the digital data facilitator having the ability totransmit the digital data to a recipient, the recipient identifier beingassociated with the recipient, the digital data facilitator having anassociated facilitator identifier associated with the digital datafacilitator; and an identification system for detecting the facilitatoridentifier.

According to a still further aspect of the disclosure, there is provideda method for facilitating asynchronous transmission of digital databetween a first and second party over a communication network. Themethod comprises the steps of: transmitting the digital data over thecommunication network from the first party to a digital data facilitatorhaving a digital storage device, a first identifier and a secondidentifier being associated with the digital data, the second identifierbeing associated with the second party, a facilitator identifier beingassociated with the digital data facilitator; storing the digital dataon the digital storage device; employing the digital data facilitator toidentify the second party associated with the transmitted digital data;transmitting the digital data to the second party, the digital dataincluding the facilitator identifier; employing an identificationsystem, located remotely from the digital data facilitator, to determineif the facilitator identifier transmitted with the transmitted digitaldata is associated with the digital data facilitator; and receiving thetransmitted digital data if the facilitator identifier transmitted withthe transmitted digital data is determined to be associated with thedigital data facilitator.

According to a still yet another aspect of the disclosure, there isprovided a system for generating an image bearing product, comprising: adigital data facilitator having a digital storage device for storingdigital data transmitted from a first party, the digital datafacilitator having the ability to review a request for the image bearingproduct transmitted by the first party with regard to the digital data,the digital data having an associated first and second identifier, thesecond identifier being associated with a delivery address of the secondparty, the first identifier being associated with a telephone number ofthe first party; a communication network for transmitting the digitaldata from the first part to the digital data facilitator and fortransmitting the digital data to a service provider for generating theimage bearing product in accordance with the request; delivery means fordelivering the image bearing product to the second party at the secondparty address; and a transaction facilitator for monitoring thetransmission of the digital data and generation of the image bearingproduct and transmitting a bill to the telephone number of the firstparty.

According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided amethod for generating an image-bearing product. The method comprises thesteps of: transmitting digital data over a communication network fromthe first party to a digital data facilitator having a digital storagedevice, the digital data having an associated first and secondidentifier, the second identifier being associated with a telephonenumber of the second party, the first identifier being associated with atelephone number of the first party; storing the digital data on thedigital storage device for a predetermined period of time; receiving aproduct request from the second party for the image bearing productafter the elapse of the predetermined period of time; transmitting adata request to the first party for the digital data; receiving thedigital data in response to the data request; transmitting the digitaldata to a service provider to generate the image bearing product inaccordance with the request; delivering the image bearing product to thesecond party at the second party address; and billing the telephonenumber of the first party for the generation of the image bearingproduct.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of thedisclosure will be apparent from the following more particulardescription of the preferred embodiments of the disclosure, asillustrated in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a system for facilitating asynchronous transmission ofdigital data between a first party and a second party over acommunication network in accordance with a first embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the presentdisclosure employing the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a digital display device.

FIG. 4 shows a system for facilitating asynchronous transmission ofdigital data between a first party and a second party over acommunication network in accordance with a second embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the presentdisclosure employing the system of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 shows a system for facilitating asynchronous transmission ofdigital data between a first party and a second party over acommunication network in accordance with a third embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the presentdisclosure employing the system of FIG. 6.

FIGS. 8 through 10 show systems for notifying a second party of theavailability of digital data.

FIG. 11 shows a system in accordance with a fourth embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the presentdisclosure employing the system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 illustrates a particular embodiment of the present disclosurewherein a digital camera is employed to transmit and receive the digitaldata.

FIG. 14 shows an illustration of a typical digital camera.

FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of the digital camera of FIG. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following is a detailed description of the preferred embodiments ofthe disclosure, reference being made to the drawings in which the samereference numerals identify the same elements of structure in each ofthe several figures.

The present disclosure is directed to the asynchronous transmission ofdigital data between at least two parties over a communication network.By asynchronous it is meant that the transmission is not occurring atthe same time. That is, that each operation is completed only after thepreceding operation is completed. Accordingly, asynchronous doesencompass such transmissions as email. In other words, both the senderand receiver of a message need not be connected together at a particularpoint in time.

The present disclosure is suited for the transmission of digital datawherein the digital data defines a digital still image. However, thepresent disclosure is not limited to the transmission of digital stillimages. The digital data transmitted in accordance with the presentdisclosure can include video clips and sound.

The present disclosure encompasses several embodiments. In a firstembodiment, a recipient of the digital data places a request for thedigital data. In a second embodiment, an automated service informs therecipient when the digital data is available for receipt. In a thirdembodiment, an automated service determines when the digital data isavailable for provides for automatic receipt of the digital data. In afourth embodiment, an image-bearing product is produced.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a system forfacilitating asynchronous transmission of digital data between at leasttwo parties over a communication network wherein a recipient of thedigital data transmits a request for the digital data.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a system 10 for facilitatingasynchronous transmission of digital data between a first party (i.e., asender) and a second party (i.e., a recipient) over a communicationnetwork. As will be discussed, system 10 of the first embodiment can,but does not require, the use of a computer or other processor. System10 includes a digital data facilitator 12 having a digital storagedevice 14 for storing the digital data 16 transmitted over acommunication network 18 from a first party (S) to digital datafacilitator 12. Digital data facilitator 12 can be any device adapted tofacilitate the transmission of digital data, including but not limitedto a computer, a server, or a network of computers or servers. Digitaldata facilitator 12 further comprises a transaction facilitator 19 formonitoring the transmission of digital data 16 to/from digital datafacilitator 12, as well as monitoring the length of storage of digitaldata 16 on storage device 14. Digital data facilitator 12 is configuredto review a request 20 transmitted from a second party. Associated withdigital data 16 is a first ID1 and second ID2 identifier. As will becomeevident, second identifier ID2 is associated with the second party.Second identifier ID2 is also associated with a telephone number of thesecond party. First identifier ID1 is associated with an electronicidentifier of the first party.

A diagram of a first method employing system 10 of FIG. 1 is shown inFIG. 2. The method relates to facilitating asynchronous transmission ofdigital data between a first and second party over a communicationnetwork. At step 100, digital data 16 is transmitted over communicationnetwork 18 from the first party to digital data facilitator 12 havingdigital storage device 14. Digital data 16 is stored (such as in a datafile) on digital storage device 14 (step 102). Request 20 is transmittedfrom the second party to digital data facilitator 12 (step 104). At step106, digital data facilitator 12 identifies the first party and thesecond party, and determines the absence or presence of digital data 16stored on digital storage device 14 having the associated first andsecond identifier associated with the first and second party,respectively (step 108). If digital data 16 is present, the request isfulfilled (step 110).

The method shown in FIG. 2 is now more particularly described with anexample. In the particular example, a mother (i.e., the second party)lives in a location (e.g., Wisconsin) remote from where her severalgrown children (i.e., the first party) live (e.g., California, New York,and Florida). Accordingly, the first party is any one of the children,and the second party is the mother. The mother enjoys receivingimages/photographs from her children.

At least one of the children (i.e. the first party) accesses at leastone image in digital form (i.e., digital data 16) which she desires toshare with her mother. It is well known that an image can be captured ina digital form using a digital image capture device, for example, adigital camera. Alternatively, a scanner or other device can be employedto convert a hard copy print of an image to digital form. Once accessed,the child transmits (step 100) the at least one image, in digital form,over communication network 18 to digital data facilitator 12.

The child can transmit digital data 16 from devices known to thoseskilled in the art. For example, the child can transmit digital data 16from a computer, whereby communication network 18 would be the internetor the like. Alternatively, the child can transmit digital data 16 froma digital camera or other digital imaging device, whereby communicationnetwork 18 can be a telephone line, wireless communication, theinternet, or the like. Communication network can be a low band-widthcommunication system, for example, a standard voice network (POTS), acellular phone or an ISDN network.

Digital data 16 can comprise audio. That is, the device which convertsdata to digital data 16 can include means, such as a microphone, torecord audio information.

It is recognized that the communication network 18 transmitting digitaldata 16 to digital data facilitator 12 does not need to be the samecommunication network 18 transmitting digital data 16 to the firstparty. What communication network employed is dependent on the devicebeing employed to transmit the communication.

In transmitting the digital image, the child associates first identifierID1 to digital data 16, wherein first identifier ID1 is an electronicidentifier of the first party, that is, associated with the child. Anexample of first identifier ID1 is a telephone number for the child, anemail address for the child, an internet address, or the like. As such,first identifier ID1 can be employed to identify the originator ofdigital data 16. In transmitting the digital image, second identifierID2 is associated with digital data 16. Second identifier ID2 isassociated with the second party. More particularly, second identifierID2 is a telephone number for the mother.

Once transmitted, at step 102 digital data 16 is stored on storagedevice 14 of digital data facilitator 12. Digital data facilitator 12can be located at any location, local or remote from the first or secondparty.

The mother enjoys receiving images/photographs from her children.Accordingly, the mother transmits a request to digital data facilitator12 to determine if there are any images from any one of her children.That is, request 20 is transmitted indicating that the mother isinterested in learning whether any images have been transmitted todigital data facilitator 12 that are intended for the mother.

Request 20 can be transmitted by the second party by means known tothose skilled in the art. For example, if the mother has a computer, themother can transmit request 20 employing the computer. Alternatively,other electronic devices can be employed, including, but not limited toa telephone, a PDA (personal digital assistant), wireless communicator,or the like. Preferably, the mother transmits the request by telephonesince one of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide amethod of asynchronous transmission of digital data between two partieswherein the requesting party is not employing a computer. As such, themother could dial a predetermined sequence of numbers to transmitrequest 20, or the number or address of the digital data facilitator canbe pre-programmed into her device.

When transmitted, second identifier ID2 associated with the second partyis associated with request 20. Accordingly, when request 20 is reviewed(step 104), digital data facilitator 12 is able to identify the motheras the requestor.

Digital data facilitator 12 accesses the plurality of digital datastored in storage device 14 to determine if storage device 14 includesany digital data having second identifier ID2 associated to the digitaldata (step 108). That is, facilitator 12 determines if any of the storeddigital data is intended for receipt by the mother. If no such digitaldata is found, the request is not fulfilled. If such digital data isfound, digital data facilitator 12 accesses the stored digital data andidentifies the first party who transmitted the stored digital data byaccessing first identifier ID1, and the request is fulfilled (step 110).

In a preferred embodiment, the method shown in FIG. 2 further comprisesthe step of, prior to fulfilling the request (step 110), determining ifthe second party will accept transmission of digital data 16 fromdigital data facilitator 12 to the second party. For example, on aparticular day, the mother may only wish to receive images from heryoungest child because that particular day is the youngest child'sbirthday. Accordingly, after determining the presence of stored digitaldata but prior to fulfilling request 20, the first party's identity(i.e., the identity associated with the stored digital data whosepresence has been determined at step 108) can be provided to the motherto determine if she will accept transmission of the stored digital data.For this example, if the first party's identity is that of her youngestchild, the mother would accept transmission. If the first party'sidentity is not that of her youngest child, the mother could postpone,delay, or refuse transmission. (System 10 could be configured to stillallow the mother to accept transmission.) Alternatively, when request 20is transmitted by the mother, request 20 can include informationassociated with the youngest child, such as first identifier ID1associated with the youngest child. Whereby storage device 14 wouldsearch for image data only having associated therewith the transmittedfirst identifier ID1 (that is, the identifier associated with theyoungest child) and second identifier ID2 associated with the mother.

The method shown in FIG. 2 can further include the step of sending anotice to the first party indicating successful transmission of digitaldata 16 to the second party. Alternatively, the notice can be deliveredto the first party the next time the first party connects to the digitaldata facilitator. This step provides the first party with aconfirmation. Such a confirmation may be desired in particularsituations when several attempts need to be made to transmit digitaldata 16 to the second party, or when follow-up by means of a synchronouscommunications tool such as a telephone is desired after receipt of thetransmission by the second party.

Similarly, the method shown in FIG. 2 can further include the step ofsending a message to digital data facilitator 12 indicating that displaydevice 22 is not ready or able to receive digital data 16. Such asituation can occur if display device 22 does not have sufficient memoryor capacity to receive the digital data or communication network 18 isunable to transmit digital data 16.

Typically request 20 reviewed at step 104 is a request for thetransmission of the digital data stored at step 102. As such,facilitator 12 transmits digital data 16 to a digital display device ofthe second party over communication network 18. If the mother's digitaldisplay device is configured as a computer, the mother can direct thetransmission of digital data 16 to her computer whereby the images canbe viewed. Alternatively, if the mother does not have a digital displaydevice configured as a computer, the mother can direct the transmissionof the images by means of her telephone line to another digital displaydevice disposed at the mother's location.

Request 20 can be a request other than a request for transmission ofdigital image data. For example, audio files or text files convertedfrom audio can be sent. Also, the digital image data can comprise videoimages.

Referring to FIG. 3, there is shown as exemplary digital display device22 including a non-image area 24 (shown in FIG. 3 as a frame 24) and animage area 26 adapted to display at least one digital image. A preferreddigital display device 22 comprises a memory device adapted to store aplurality of images, whereby the plurality of images can be accessed,viewed, and/or stored. It is recognized that the number of images whichcan be stored on the display device is dependent on the resolution ofthe image transmitted and the memory device. Display device 22 caninclude one or more selection members/buttons 28 for providinginstructions or operating various modes of display device 22. Forexample, selection member can include an ON/OFF mode. Further, selectionmember 28 can initiate a “slide show”, that is, a continuous viewing ofthe images transmitted to display device 22. Still further, selectionmenu can operate a menu viewable on image area 26 listing the variousmodes of operation for display device 22. As such, it may be preferredto have image area 26 of display device 22 configured as a touchscreen.Yet further, selection member 28 might be a “check now” button whichautomatically initiates the transmission of request 20. That is,connection to digital data facilitator 12 is accomplished by pressing abutton. Other selection members or modes may be known to those skilledin the art.

Fee Based.

There might be a fee or cost associated with the method of the presentdisclosure. For example, there might be a fee associated with (1) use ofcommunication network 18 to transmit digital data 16 to digital datafacilitator 12 (step 100); (2) storage of digital data 16 on storagedevice 14 (step 102); (3) use of communication network 18 to transmitrequest 20; and/or (4) use of communication network to transmit digitaldata 16 from storage device 14 to the second party (step 110).

Therefore, digital data facilitator 12 includes transaction facilitator19 for monitoring the transmission of digital data 16 to/from digitaldata facilitator 12, as well as monitoring the length of storage ofdigital data 16 on storage device 14. That is, transaction facilitator19 is adapted to monitor the transmission of the digital data for apurpose of determining a transaction fee, which fees can be associatedwith the transmission and/or storage of digital data 16. Transactionfacilitator 19 can include a billing application to prepare a billingstatement. For example, the second party might arrange to pay allassociated fees in order to receive images from the first party (e.g., amother wanting to see photos from her only child away at college).Alternatively, the first party might arrange to pay all associated feesin order to send image to the second party (e.g., a child wanting tosend photos to his mother located in a senior retirement center locatedin a warm climate). Still further, the fees could be divided by somearrangement between the first and second party. The fees collected couldbe divided by a predetermined arrangement between a telecommunicationprovider providing communication network 18 and a service providerproviding the service of digital data facilitator 12. Fees could also becharged for storage of digital data 16 on storage device 14. Forexample, either party can request that the digital data be available fora predetermined length of time to ensure that the second party receivesthe digital data.

This fee-based arrangement of system 10 is suitable for both thefrequent and infrequent user since the user pays only for the servicesused. The cost to the users is minimized. The infrequent user benefitsfrom this arrangement since no monthly fee is charged. The party can bebilled using an existing telephone account. By such a billingarrangement, the providers (telecommunication provider and/or serviceprovider) can obtain the fees in a routine manner and in a reasonabletimeframe.

Second Embodiment

In a second embodiment of the present disclosure, an automated serviceinforms the second party when digital data is available for receipt.Accordingly, referring to FIG. 4, system 10 further includes acommunication device 30 for sending a communication 32 to the secondparty over communication network 18. That is, communication 32 is sentto the second party when digital data intended for the second party isreceived by digital data facilitator 12.

A diagram of a second method employing system 10 of FIG. 4 is shown inFIG. 5. The method relates to facilitating asynchronous transmission ofdigital data between a first and second party over a communicationnetwork. At step 200, digital data 16 is transmitted over communicationnetwork 18 from the first party to digital data facilitator 12 havingdigital storage device 14. Digital data 16 has associated therewithfirst identifier ID1 associated with an electronic identifier of thefirst party, and second identifier ID2 associated with a telephonenumber of the second party. At step 202, digital data 16 is stored ondigital storage device 14. Then, digital data facilitator 12 is employedto identify the first party and the second party. Once the second partyis identified, communication 32 is to the second party overcommunication network 18 (step 206) by means of communication device 30.Communication 32 can occur at predefined times that are acceptable tothe second party as determined by a setup routine run on display device22, or by means of parameters included in the data provided by the firstparty. In a preferred embodiment, the first party is identified incommunication 32 so that the second party can determine whether toreceive image data 16. If the second party desires to receive image data16, the second party sends request 20. At step 208, request 20,transmitted from the second party to the digital data facilitator inresponse to communication 32, is reviewed. At step 210, digital data 16is transmitted to the second party in response to receiving request 20from the second party. If the second party is unable to receive the dataat the time of initial contact, transmission may be delayed to anothertime.

The communication sent to the second party may take many forms. In oneembodiment, the second party receives a voice message via the telephone.This voice message informs the second party that there is data waiting,and describes the sender. This description may be the ID of the firstparty, the name of the first party or a playback of a recorded voicemessage by the first party. For example, the second party can hear themessage, “If you would like to receive images from 585-555-8243, press 5and hang up”. In another example, the second party can hear the message,“If you would like to receive images from the party who has left thefollowing message, press 5 and hang up” whereafter the following messageis delivered, “Hi Grandma, here is a picture of my new bike.”

In accordance with the present disclosure, an automated servicedetermines when the digital data is available for receipt and the secondparty automatically receives the digital data if sent from digital datafacilitator 12. More particularly, if the second party is receivingdigital data 16 by means of a telephone line, the second party'stelephone line can be configured, using an identification system, toautomatically receive digital data 16 if digital data facilitator 12 isthe caller. Such an identification system can be the telephonic systemgenerally referred to as “caller-id”. Caller-id is well known in thetelecommunication industry, and can be employed here to determine whendigital data facilitator 12 is the caller. As such, the second partyautomatically receives digital data 16 from digital data facilitator. Ina preferred embodiment, the second party configures the receiving devicewith caller-id to receive digital data 16 only from selected senders.That is, the second party pre-identifies the parties from whom he/shewill receive digital data. This “prescreening” of the senders of thedigital data ensures that the second party is not “spammed” byunwanted/unsolicited digital data from unknown third parties.

Third Embodiment

In a third embodiment, referring now to FIG. 6, system 10 furthercomprises an identification system 34 for verifying the sender (i.e.,the first party) of the digital data. Identification system 34 canverify that the sender is digital data facilitator 12. If the secondparty is receiving digital data 16 by means of a telephone line, thenidentification system 34 can be a caller-id system.

The identification system can be located proximate the digital datafacilitator. For example, if digital data facilitator 12 andidentification system 34 are both provided/operated by the samecommunications company, they may be disposed at the same location.Alternatively, identification system 34 can be disposed remotely fromdigital data facilitator 12. For example, the second party may have anin-home device, which serves as an identification system. Such anin-home device might be a component of the second party's telephone ortelephone answering machine.

More particularly, system 10 shown in FIG. 6 includes digital datafacilitator 12 having digital storage device 14. A first and secondidentifier is associated with the digital data. The second identifier isassociated with the second party (the recipient). Digital datafacilitator 12 includes an associated facilitator identifier 36associated with digital data facilitator 12. In a preferred embodiment,facilitator identifier 36 is a telephone number. System 10 furtherincludes identification system 34, which as indicated above, can beproximate or remote from digital data facilitator 12, for detectingfacilitator identifier 26. Transaction facilitator 19 can be employed tomonitor digital data 16 being transmitted over the communication networkbetween the parties.

It is recognized that for this particular embodiment employing acaller-id, that caller-id may not be able to recognize an email address.That is, for this particular embodiment, if the identification of thefirst party is an email address, this embodiment might not prevent thetransmission of undesired digital data.

A diagram of a third method employing system 10 of FIG. 6 is shown inFIG. 7. At step 300, digital data 16 is transmitted over communicationnetwork 18 from the first party to digital data facilitator 12 havingdigital storage device 14. First identifier ID1 and second identifierID2 are associated with digital data 16, with second identifier ID2being associated with the second party. In addition, facilitatoridentifier 36 is associated with digital data facilitator 12. In apreferred embodiment, facilitator 36 is a telephone number associatedwith digital data facilitator 12. At step 302, digital data 16 is storedon digital storage device 14. Then, digital data facilitator 12 isemployed to identify the second party associated with the transmitteddigital data (step 304). At step 306, digital data 16 is transmitted tothe second party, with the transmitted digital data includingfacilitator identifier 36. At step 308, identification system 34,located remotely from digital data facilitator 12, is employed todetermine if facilitator identifier 36 transmitted with the transmitteddigital data is correctly associated with digital data facilitator 12.If correctly associated, the transmitted digital data is received by thesecond party (step 310).

In a preferred embodiment, to reduce/eliminate the second party'sreceipt of unsolicited digital data, identification system 34 ispre-programmed with a list of first parties (i.e., first identifiers)from which the second party will accept receipt of digital data. Such apre-programming can be accomplished by manually inputting telephonenumbers into identification system 34. This adds a level of security tothe system.

With the automatic transmission of digital data 16, a notification orindicator 38 can be provided to the second party to provide notice thatdigital data has been received. Such an indicator can be a visualindicator displayed on image area 26 of display device 22. FIG. 8 showsone example of a visual indicator 38 wherein a message of “YOU HAVEPICTURES!” is displayed when digital data is transmitted. Anotherexample of a visual indicator is a button on the frame which lights upor flashes when digital data is transmitted.

Alternatively, indicator 38 can be an audio indicator, for example,referring to FIG. 9, an audio message of “YOU HAVE PICTURES” emanatesfrom display device 22. Still further, rather than hearing a dial tonefrom the telephone when the telephone receiver is picked up, a messageof “YOU HAVE PICTURES” can be heard.

In a particular arrangement, caller ID means may be employed at digitaldata facilitator 12 to ensure receipt of data by only specified parties.Digital data facilitator 12 can use caller ID to determine the identityof the first party when the data is initially transmitted. The identityof the first party is associated with the data file. The identity of thedesired recipient second party is included with the transmission of thedata from the first party to digital data facilitator 12. When thesecond party or display device 22 calls digital data facilitator 12, thesecond party is identified by the caller ID means. Additionally, thesecond party or display device 22 provides a listing of the identitiesof first parties from which the second party wishes to receive data. Ifthe identity of the first party as determined by the caller ID means ison the list provided by the second party, and the identity of the secondparty as determined by the caller ID means matches the identity of thedesired recipient second party included with the transmission of thedata from the first party to digital data facilitator 12, the data willbe transmitted to the second party.

Stated alternatively, the first party transmits a digital data file todigital data facilitator 12. The digital data in the file specifies theidentity (phone number) of the second party. The identity of the firstparty is determined by the caller-id means. The identity of the firstparty is associated with the data file. When the second party contactsdigital data facilitator 12, digital data facilitator 12 determines theidentity of the second party by the caller-id means. Digital datafacilitator 12 also receives a list of identities (i.e., first parties)from which the second party is willing to accept digital data. If theids of the first party and the second party match, digital datafacilitator 12 transmits the digital data to the second party.

Display device 22 may also be enabled to provide an audio message to theprovider of the digital data (the first party). Upon selecting the“return message” function, the second party can record a voice messageto the first party. This message is returned to the first party viadigital data facilitator 12.

Fourth Embodiment

Referring now to FIG. 11, in a fourth embodiment in accordance with thepresent disclosure, an image-bearing product 40 is produced. In thisfourth embodiment, digital data 16 cannot be transmitted to the secondparty. Such a situation can occur for a plurality of reasons, forexample, if the second party does not have a telephone, display device22, a computer, or other digital display device adapted to receivedigital data. Accordingly, in accordance with the fourth embodiment,image-bearing product 40 is automatically produced and delivered to thesecond party, and the first party's telephone number is billed.

As shown in FIG. 11, system 10 in accordance with the fourth embodimentincludes digital data facilitator 12 having digital storage device 14for storing digital data transmitted over communication network 18 froma first party. Digital data 16 has an associated first and secondidentifier, with the second identifier being associated with a deliveryaddress of the second party, and the first identifier being associatedwith a telephone number of the first party. Communication network 18permits the transmission of digital data 16 to a service provider 42 forgenerating the image-bearing product in accordance with the request.Delivery means are provided for delivering image bearing product 40 tothe second party at the second party address. In addition, transactionfacilitator 19 monitors the transmission of the digital data andgeneration of the image bearing product whereby a bill for thetransmission and generation is sent to the telephone number of the firstparty.

It is recognized that image bearing product 40 can be any productcomprising the digital data. Typically, product 40 is a hard copy print,such as an 4×6 or 8×10, but can include a compact disc, puzzle, poster,tee shirt, mug, or the like as known to those skilled in the art.

A diagram of a fourth method employing system 10 of FIG. 11 is shown inFIG. 12 for generating image bearing product 40. At step 400, digitaldata 16 is transmitted over communication network 18 from a first partyto digital data facilitator 1 having digital storage device 14.Associated with digital data 16 is a first and second identifier,wherein the second identifier is associated with a delivery address ofthe second party, and the first identifier is associated with atelephone number of the first party. At step 402, digital data 16 isstored on digital storage device 14. A request for image bearing product40 is transmitted by the first party, wherein the request and theproduct are with regard to digital data 16. At step 404, digital datafacilitator 12 reviews the request, and then transmits digital data 16to service provider 42 to generate image bearing product 40 inaccordance with the request (step 406). Product 40 is delivered to thesecond party at the second party address (step 408). A fee is chargedfor the product at step 410. More particularly, the telephone number ofthe first party is billed for the generation of image bearing product40.

At step 406, the digital data may not be available on storage device 14for transmission to service provider 42. That is, if digital data 16 isstored on storage device 14 for a predetermined period of time, thepredetermined period of time might have elapsed whereby digital data 16is no longer available on storage device 14 for the generation of theimage bearing product. Alternatively, digital data 16 stored on storagedevice 14 may be of a lower resolution than desired to generateimage-bearing product 40. Accordingly, a request can be transmitted tothe first party to re-transmit the digital data to digital datafacilitator 12 so that image-bearing product 40 can be generated.

Such a re-transmittal of the digital data may be needed for the otherembodiments described above. That is, for any of the embodimentsdescribed above, if an image bearing product is to be generated anddigital data 16 does not reside on digital data facilitator 12, a datarequest can be transmitted to the first party to re-transmit the digitaldata so that the image bearing product can be generated. Alternatively,if higher resolution digital data is desired for the generation of theimage-bearing product, a data request can be transmitted to the firstparty to transmit the higher resolution digital data. This request mayoccur the next time the first party contacts the digital datafacilitator.

Accordingly, if the digital data is not residing on digital datafacilitator 12, a method of generating an image bearing product wouldinclude the steps of storing the originally transmitted digital data onthe digital storage device for a predetermined period of time, and thenreceiving a product request from the second party for the image bearingproduct after the elapse of the predetermined period of time.Thereafter, a data request is transmitted to the first party for thedigital data, and the digital data is received in response to the datarequest. After which, the digital data is transmitted to a serviceprovider to generate the image bearing product in accordance with therequest and the image bearing product is delivered to the second partyat the second party address. In a preferred arrangement, the telephonenumber of the first party is billed for the generation of the imagebearing product.

Fifth Embodiment

In another embodiment, the second party may desire a print of aparticular image. If a print is selected and there is no printing meansconnected to display device 22, a request is made to digital datafacilitator 12 for a print. It is likely that the data for the print isnot resident on storage device 14, or is of improper resolution forprinting. Accordingly, a communication is made from digital datafacilitator 12 to the first party by directly contacting the first partyor by waiting until the next opportunity when the first party contactsthe digital data facilitator. In this communication, a request is madeof the first party to provide the data at adequate resolution for aprint. If the high resolution print data is locally available, the datais transmitted to digital data facilitator 12. If not, the first partyis instructed to provide the data. The high resolution print data at thedigital data facilitator is transmitted to service provider 42 so that aprint may be produced.

More than One Recipient.

It is recognized that the digital data can be shared with a plurality ofrecipients. That is, the first party can upload digital data 16 todigital data facilitator 12 and share this uploaded digital data with aplurality of second parties.

No Digital Data Facilitator.

An alternative method, wherein no digital data facilitator 12 isemployed, comprises the transmittal of a message to the second partyfrom the first party instructing the second party to place displaydevice 22 in the appropriate mode to receive digital data 16. Theinstructions can be accomplished audibly, and the second party may haveoptions. For example, the first party's device may instruct the secondparty to “press 1” to delay the transmission or “press 2” to leave amessage.

Preferred Embodiments

In a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, shown in FIG. 13,the first party employs a digital device of a digital camera 50. Theimages captured by digital camera 50 can be uploaded/transmitted todigital data facilitator 12 for sharing with a second party. A modem canbe employed. The transmission can be automatically accomplished if adigital camera docking station 52 is employed, an example of which isthe EasyShare available from Eastman Kodak Company. The EasyShare dockconnects directly to the computer. A modification is proposed thatallows the dock to connect directly to telephone line 54.

In a preferred arrangement, a direct connection is provided to digitaldata facilitator 12 from digital camera/docking station 50,52 using acommunication network of a telephone line 54. A local network can beemployed so that only local telephone connections are necessary.Further, the transmission can occur in the evening or early morning tominimize the cost of the telephone line and for convenience. Digitalcamera 50 includes a microphone so that audio can be captured, forexample, audio explaining the subject/content of the captured image.

The second party can employ display device 22 configured as a digitalcamera, shown in FIG. 13 as a digital camera 56. As with digital camera50 of the first party, digital camera 56 of the second party can use adocking station 58 to automate features of the digital camera. Forexample, digital camera 56 can be configured to regularly query digitaldata facilitator 12. More particularly, digital camera 56 can beconfigured to query digital data facilitator 12 at 4 am. If no digitaldata is available for the second party, the modem disconnects as quicklyas possible to reduce usage of the telephone line. If digital data isavailable, the digital data will be transmitted and fees will be chargedfor the telephone line usage. Alternatively, the second party can checkfor digital data at any time using the “check now” selection member 28(best shown in FIG. 4). As more images (i.e., digital data) aretransmitted, the longer the connection time, the higher the fee. Thesefees can be divided between the telecommunication company providing theconnection and the company/service providing the service of digital datafacilitator 12. The parties are billed directly through their telephoneaccount(s).

Image area 26 of display device 22 can display the images to the secondparty as they are being transmitted. If display device 22 is configuredas a digital camera, image area 26 is preferably positioned withindocking station 58 so as to be facing the second party so that theimages can be viewed as they are being transmitted.

Digital data 16 is of an appropriate resolution for the second party'sdigital display device (i.e., digital camera 56 for FIG. 13). Forexample, for FIG. 13, if the first party transmits images, the imagestransmitted to the second party are of a resolution appropriate fordigital camera 56. Digital data facilitator 12 can maintain a databaseof the display device 22 of the second party. Alternatively, the requesttransmitted by the second party to digital data facilitator 12 caninclude a reference identifying the second party's display device towhich digital data 16 will be transmitted. If the display device of thesecond party has a resolution higher than the resolution of the digitaldata transmitted to digital data facilitator 12 from the first party,then a request for higher resolution data may be returned to the firstparty via digital data facilitator 12.

In a preferred embodiment, high (or full) resolution images need not betransmitted by the first party to digital data facilitator 12 until andunless an image bearing product is desired. That is, a lower resolutionimage can be transmitted, then, if it is determined that the highresolution image is needed, a request can be transmitted from digitaldata facilitator 12 to the first party requesting the high resolutionimage (“please load the image into your digital camera fortransmittal”).

Digital data facilitator 12 can be configured to store digital data 16for a predetermined period of time. After the predetermined time period,the digital data can be transferred off-line or deleted. Similarly, oncethe digital data has been accessed, the digital data can be transferredoff-line or deleted.

The service provider can include a service of automatically generating acompact disc or other transportable/removable digital media after apredetermined time period comprising the digital data of the firstand/or second party for delivery to the first and/or second party.

Digital Camera.

It has been disclosed that display device 22 can be configured as adigital camera. FIG. 14 generally illustrates a digital camera 60comprising a housing 61 which is adapted to capture images in electronicform. Digital camera 60 captures digital images, which are stored on aremovable memory device such as a removable memory stick or card 62.Removable memory cards 62 are known to those skilled in the art. Forexample, removable memory card 12 can include memory cards adapted tothe PCMCIA card interface standard and the CompactFlash SpecificationVersion 1.4, published by the CompactFlash Association, Palo Alto,Calif., 1998-1999. Other types of digital memory devices, such asmagnetic hard drives, magnetic tape, CD, floppy disks, optical disks, orthe like can alternatively be used to store the digital images.

FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of a typical digital camera 60 suitablefor use with the method of the present disclosure. Digital camera 60 mayinclude a zoom lens 64 having a zoom and focus motor 66 and anadjustable aperture and shutter (not shown). When an image is beingcaptured using digital camera 60, zoom lens 64 focuses light from ascene being captured (not shown) onto an image sensor 68. Image sensor68 may be, for example, a single-chip color charged couple device (CCD)image sensor, and may employ the well known Bayer color filter pattern.Image sensor 68 is controlled by a clock driver(s) 70. Zoom and focusmotors 66 and clock driver 70 are controlled by control signals suppliedby a control processor and timing generator 72. Control processor andtiming generator 72 receives inputs from an autofocus and autoexposuredetector 74 and controls a flash 76. An analog output signal from theimage sensor 68 is amplified and converted to digital data by an analogsignal processing (ASP) and analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 78.Digital data received from converter 78 is stored in a DRAM buffermemory 80 and subsequently processed by an image processor 82. Imageprocessor 82 is controlled by firmware stored in a firmware memory 84,which can be, for example, flash EPROM memory.

Image processor 82 will process the image captured in accordance withinstructions stored in firmware memory 84. Image processor 84 performscolor interpolation followed by color and tone correction, in order toproduce rendered sRGB image data. The rendered sRGB image data can thenbe compressed, for example using the well-known JPEG format. Usingmemory card interface 86, the compressed image data is then stored as animage file on removable memory card 62. Image processor 82 preferablycreates an image that is stored in RAM memory 88 and supplied to adisplay 90, for example a color LCD display, which displays the capturedimage for the user to review.

Digital camera 60 is controlled by user controls 92, such as a series ofuser buttons including an actuation/capture button (e.g., shutterrelease) (not shown) which initiates an image capturing operation. Agraphical user interface displayed on the color LCD image display 90 iscontrolled by a user interface portion of firmware stored in firmwarememory 84.

The image captured by digital camera 60 can be transferred to a personalcomputer by removing removable memory card 62 from image capture device60 and inserting removable memory card 62 in a card reader (not shown)in a computer 94, such as a home personal computer. Alternatively, aninterface cable 96 can be used to connect between a host interface 98 inimage capture device 60 and a CPU motherboard (not shown) in computer94. Interface cable 96 can conform to, for example, the well-knownuniversal serial bus (USB) interface specification. Digital camera 60can comprise a cellular processor 99 adapted to initiate a cellularphone call by means of a cellular modem 101.

It is recognized that processor 82 can also create a “thumbnail” sizeimage that is stored in RAM memory 88 and supplied to the color LCDimage display 90, which displays the captured image for the user toreview. This low-resolution “thumbnail” size image, can be created asdescribed in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,164,831 (Kuchta). Thethumbnail image has 160×120 pixels, and can be stored within an Exifimage file along with the full resolution image. The Exif image files,containing the JPEG compressed main image, thumbnail image, and theimage metadata, can be stored on removable memory card 62 using adirectory structure conforming to the “DCF” rules. The file format knownas Digital Printer Order Format (DPOF) can be employed by the serviceprovider when an image bearing product is generated.

A computer program product may include one or more storage medium, forexample; magnetic storage media such as magnetic disk (such as a floppydisk) or magnetic tape; optical storage media such as optical disk,optical tape, or machine readable bar code; solid-state electronicstorage devices such as random access memory (RAM), or read-only memory(ROM); or any other physical device or media employed to store acomputer program having instructions for controlling one or morecomputers to practice the method according to the present disclosure.

The disclosure has been described in detail with particular reference toa presently preferred embodiment, but it will be understood thatvariations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scopeof the disclosure. The presently disclosed embodiments are thereforeconsidered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. Thescope of the disclosure is indicated by the appended claims, and allchanges that come within the meaning and range of equivalents thereofare intended to be embraced therein.

PARTS LIST

-   10 system-   12 digital data facilitator-   14 digital storage device-   16 digital data-   18 communication network-   19 transaction facilitator; monitor-   20 request-   22 display device-   24 non-image area-   26 image area-   28 selection members-   30 communication device-   32 communication-   34 identification system-   36 facilitator identifier-   38 indicator-   40 image bearing product-   42 service provider-   50 digital camera; first party-   52 docking station; first party-   54 telephone line-   56 digital camera; second party-   58 docking station; second party-   60 digital camera-   61 housing; digital camera-   62 removable memory device-   64 zoom lens-   66 zoom and focus motor-   68 image sensor-   70 clock drivers-   72 control processing and timing generator-   74 detectors-   76 flash-   78 converters-   80 DRAM memory-   82 image processor-   84 firmware memory-   86 memory card interface-   88 RAM memory-   90 image display-   92 user controls-   94 computer-   96 communication network-   98 host interface-   99 cellular processor-   101 cellular modem

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving at a digital datafacilitator system, digital data communicated over a communicationnetwork from a first processing system to the digital data facilitatorsystem, wherein the digital data has an associated first identifier anda second identifier, wherein the first identifier is associated with thefirst processing system and the second identifier is associated with asecond processing system, and wherein at least one of the firstidentifier or the second identifier comprises a phone number; storingthe digital data on a digital storage device of the digital datafacilitator system; receiving, at the digital data facilitator system, arequest for the digital data transmitted from the second processingsystem to the digital data facilitator, wherein the request identifies adisplay device associated with the second processing system to displaythe digital data; determining, by the digital data facilitator system,absence or presence of the digital data stored on the digital storagedevice having the associated second identifier associated with thesecond processing system; and transmitting, by the digital datafacilitator system, the digital data to the display device associatedwith the second processing system at a resolution of the display deviceif the digital data is present.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising the digital data facilitator system identifying the firstprocessing system and the second processing system.
 3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the first identifier is an email address, phone numberor IP address.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the second identifieris an email address, phone number or IP address.
 5. The method of claim1, further comprising the digital data facilitator system sending anotice to the first processing system indicating successful transmissionof the digital data to the second processing system.
 6. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising the digital data facilitator systemmonitoring transmission of the digital data to and from the digital datafacilitator using a transaction facilitator.
 7. The method of claim 2,further comprising sending from the digital data facilitator system tothe second processing system a communication indicating the availabilityof the digital data when the digital data intended for the secondprocessing system is received by the digital data facilitator system. 8.The method of claim 1, wherein the first identifier comprises a phonenumber and the second identifier comprises a phone number.
 9. A systemcomprising: a first processing system configured to communicate via acommunication network; a second processing system configured tocommunicate via the communication network; a display device associatedwith the second processing system; and a digital data facilitator havinga digital storage device, wherein the digital data facilitator isconfigured to: receive digital data over the communication network fromthe first processing system, wherein the digital data comprises a firstidentifier and a second identifier, wherein the first identifier isassociated with the first processing system and the second identifier isassociated with the second processing system, and wherein at least oneof the first identifier or the second identifier comprises a phonenumber; store the digital data on the digital storage device; receive arequest for the digital data transmitted from the second processingsystem, wherein the request identifies the display device associatedwith the second processing system to display the digital data; determineabsence or presence of the digital data having the second identifierassociated with the second processing system; and transmit the digitaldata to the display device associated with the second processing systemat a resolution of the display device if the digital data is present.10. The system of claim 9, wherein the digital data facilitator isconfigured to identify the processing system and the second processingsystem.
 11. The system of claim 9, wherein the first identifier is anemail address, phone number or IP address.
 12. The system of claim 9,wherein the second identifier is an email address, phone number or IPaddress.
 13. The system of claim 9, wherein the digital data facilitatoris configured to send a notice to the first processing system indicatingsuccessful transmission of the digital data to the second processingsystem.
 14. The system of claim 9, further comprising a transactionfacilitator configured to monitor transmission of the digital data toand from the digital data facilitator.
 15. The system of claim 10,wherein the digital data facilitator is configured to send the secondprocessing system a communication indicating the availability of thedigital data when the digital data intended for the second processingsystem is received by the digital data facilitator.
 16. The system ofclaim 15, wherein the first processing system is identified in thecommunication.
 17. A non-transitory computer readable medium havingstored thereon instructions executable by a processor to cause a digitaldata facilitator to perform functions, the functions comprising:receiving digital data over a communication network from a firstprocessing system to the digital data facilitator having a digitalstorage device, wherein the digital data has an associated firstidentifier and a second identifier, wherein the first identifier isassociated with the first processing system and the second identifier isassociated with a second processing system, and wherein at least one ofthe first identifier or the second identifier comprises a phone number;storing the digital data on the digital storage device; receiving arequest for the digital data transmitted from the second processingsystem to the digital data facilitator, wherein the request identifies adisplay device associated with the second processing system to displaythe digital data; determining absence or presence of the digital datastored on the digital storage device having the associated secondidentifier associated with the second processing system; and transmitthe digital data to the display device associated with the secondprocessing system at a resolution of the display device if the digitaldata is present.
 18. The computer readable medium of claim 17, whereinthe functions further comprise identifying the first processing systemand the second processing system.